Chandigarh institutions are attracting foreign students

Chandigarh institutions are attracting foreign students

MUNISH DHIMAN  2nd Mar 2013

here has been a significant rise in the number of foreign students visiting educational institutions in and around Chandigarh.The number of foreign students who sought admission to the Panjab University and its affiliated colleges in 2009 were 135, but this demographic crossed 375 in 2012, according to the office of the Dean International Students. Most of the students studying here hail mainly from Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Ethiopia, Tibet, and the US. Maria, an Iranian student, pursuing her PhD in Psychology from Panjab University says, "I am in India for the past five years now. After completing my masters, one each from the Pune and Delhi University, I came to Chandigarh. After staying in Pune and Delhi, I somehow feel that Chandigarh is a very small city, though greenery adds to its features. It becomes charmless and old in a few weeks. But as far as studies are concerned, the students are very helpful and the faculty is really cooperative. There is not much difference in the cultural and religious beliefs. I believe studies as well as other facilities in India are very economical, in short, we get the best value for money." Kiyanoush Ghalavand, a Persian and ex Vice-president, Foreign Students Association is presently pursuing Phd in Agricultural Economics. He feels, "One of the best features of studying at Panjab University is that you get ample study material and guidance from your guide. Students are not biased and always help, whenever required! I have seen the number of students increasing which is definitely because of the academic standard of the university. I dream of becoming a resident of Chandigarh as it is the best city to live a hassle-free life. I always thank God that he sent me here." Students from foreign countries come to Chandigarh for higher studies. Besides helping garner academic knowledge, the stay sometimes fecund more than that. Timo Alexander Keimer from Germany, a student of ISB explains, "I learned a lot about Indian culture, and especially about food and how much spice I can handle." One of the major reasons of the increasing number of foreign students are the scholarships provided by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) that has encouraged students from Afghanistan and African countries to come to India for higher studies. "Chandigarh is a beautiful city and I really enjoy the spring season here as it covers the city with beautiful flowers and greenery all over. I am having a great time in the university and the credit for it goes to my guide and co guide who treat me as a family member. People here are helpful, friendly, nice and really kind. From students to teachers to the Vice-Chancellor, their help and timely support is worth appreciation," says management student Mohammad Ghadamyari, from Iran. Dolma Sarki from Bhutan never misses her home, she says, "I really love studying here in Chandigarh. Never felt like a fish out of water as Chandigarh keeps the feeling of home absolutely fresh. The education system is very good and the people here are very helpful. Apart from academics we indulge ourselves in other co-curricular and cultural activities that happen from time to time in the campus. The enthusiasm around being in Chandigarh is definitely beyond expression and a great experience." http://www.sunday-guardian.com/young-restless/chandigarh-institutions-are-attracting-foreign-students